Three Chimneys, Biddenden

A wonderful, centuries-old timber-framed pub, once the haunt of ordinary labourers, now with a prestigious reputation for food. Our concern is more with the former! The left-hand bar is probably the original drinking area, hence the utterly simple, narrow L-shaped bench seating with a horizontal two-plank back-rest and fully matchboarded walls. Cold-weather drinkers would have enjoyed the big open fireplace opposite. There is a door (in situ) into the next room where the pub no doubt expanded. A further room to the right has been pressed into service (probably domestic accommodation in former times). The unanswered question is the date of the long counter which spans all three rooms. When did it go in? It is sloping, matchboarded, and has no real datable characteristics. Perhaps in the 1930s as more people came out to enjoy the antique, country delights of the pub? There are major extensions at the rear and right for dining but they do no impact on the historic core. As in times long ago, beer is still dispensed from stillages at ground-floor level.